Chardonnay Toscana IGT 2023

Isole e Olena | Tuscany
Isole e Olena S.r.l. | Loc. Isole 1 | IT 50021 Barberino Val d'Elsa

09460123 · 0,75 l · 106,65 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping< 24 units available

In 1987, Paolo De Marchi embarked on an experiment that was to become legendary: he grafted Chardonnay cuttings onto existing vines in the woodland-fringed vineyards of Isole e Olena. What began as a bold venture developed into one of Tuscany’s most exceptional white wines – a silent masterpiece, also known as a ‘silent wine’ due to its limited production. The 2023 vintage tells the story of a special terroir: The five hectares of vineyards in the northernmost part of the estate, surrounded by protective woods, create a cooler microclimate that lends the Chardonnay that mineral precision and elegance which sets it apart from its Tuscan counterparts. Vines over twenty years old, harvested by hand in the first days of September, form the foundation of this rarity. Paolo De Marchi’s Burgundian signature is revealed in the vinification: fermentation in barriques, followed by ten to twelve months of ageing on the fine lees in French oak barrels – —one third new, one third second-use, one third third-use. Regular bâtonnage, initially three times a week and later once a week, lends the wine its silky texture and complex depth.

In the glass, the 2023 vintage glows with a vibrant lemon-yellow hue and greenish highlights. The bouquet unfolds into an enchanting symphony of orange blossom and jasmine, underpinned by ripe apricots, quinces and a hint of toasted almonds. Subtle notes of vanilla and a delicate minerality complete the olfactory kaleidoscope. The true greatness of this cuvée is revealed on the palate: creamy and dense, yet imbued with vibrant freshness, the wine combines ripe fruit with salty minerality to form a harmonious whole. The elegant acidity carries aromas of lemon tart and apricots, whilst the long, slightly buttery finish is characterised by spicy woody notes and a delicate toastiness. A Chardonnay that perfects the Tuscan interpretation of Burgundian philosophy – a wine for collectors and connoisseurs, which will only fully reveal its true greatness after years of ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, sparkling golden yellow. An elegant bouquet of tropical fruits and honeydew melon, with herbal notes of Mediterranean scrub in the finish. Velvety on the palate, with well-integrated oak and final salty final." Falstaff

"This was a good vintage for the Chardonnay, as there were no heatwaves. The nose reveals subtle apricot aromas with a hint of oak. The attack is lean and precise, with a touch of nutty oak. The balance is good, with sufficient acidity to ensure a long, crisp finish. The silky texture lends finesse to a wine that is more elegant than explosive." Decanter

"The 2023 Chardonnay displays notes of apricot, dried flowers, mint, mandarin oil and almonds. Soft and unobtrusive, the 2023 vintage is very appealing. It will be interesting to see how it ages in the bottle." Vinous

"The Isole e Olena 2023 Chardonnay is softly textured and rich with cooked apricot, baked apple, breakfast pastry and light spice." Wine Advocate

"A restrained, toasty Chardonnay with aromas of white chocolate, butter, citrus and stone fruit. Full-bodied, dense and fresh, with a slightly bitter finish, but well-balanced overall." James Suckling